Located in Pittsford, New York, Oak Hill Country Club’s East Course was designed by the legendary Donald Ross in the 1920s. The East Course has challenged the world’s best as host to many major championships, and it is an ideal example of a true parkland-style championship golf course.
A Storied Legacy
Oak Hill East Course’s storied legacy has been established over decades of hosting some of the worlds biggest tournaments including:
- U.S. Open (1956, 1968, 1989)
- PGA Championship (1980, 2003, 2013, 2023)
- Ryder Cup (1995)
- U.S. Amateur
- U.S. Senior Open
The Rebirth Of A Legend
In 2019, golf course architect Andrew Green embarked on a comprehensive restoration of the East Course to realign it with Ross’ original vision. Key elements of the restoration included rebuilding greens, a bunker overhaul, tree management, and course lengthening. Having played Oak Hill East both prior and post-renovation, I can say the work is marvellously done. The bunkers have taken on new life, and the overall aesthetic serves to elevate the brawny nature of the layout.
Characterics
Characterizing Oak Hill East, I would describe it as a course that features tight driving corridors demanding precision from the tee, deep and steep-faced bunkers asking for accuracy from all parts of the golf course, and symmetrical squared-off greens with interesting pin placements.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the thoughtful restoration has ensured that Oak Hill East will continue to challenge and inspire golfers for generations to come as a wonderful example of a true championship golf course where the challenge is in front of you. Oak Hill East will undoubtedly continue to define parkland-style championship golf for decades to come.
